In response to: Construction date is set for controversial Horsham incinerator
In response to Britaniacrest Recycling Ltd.’s article in the online West Sussex County Times on 2nd November 2020, an Ni4H spokesperson said:
“No Incinerator 4 Horsham Community Group (Ni4H) first heard of these significant developments through the West Sussex County Times. At the Public Inquiry assurances were given that the Community would be kept informed, but these promises have already been broken.
- The Community was not informed about the discharge of conditions.
- Not provided with a press release announcing plans for construction to start.
- The Community Liaison Group has not met since 24th February 2020 and the community has not been invited to comment on the new terms of reference for the Community Liaison Group.
- Britaniacrest has not shared details of the consultation associated with the Environment Permit Application.
So far Britaniacrest has only discharged three of Planning Inspector Ian Jenkins’ 28 Planning Conditions. Ni4H aims to ensure that any construction conforms to the highest specifications, follows the latest and best environmental guidelines. Ni4H has written to the Environment Agency requesting that this controversial application is treated as an application of High Public Interest, including consultation with the public, Ni4H and other relevant organisations. Ni4H continues to seek advice from our Planning, Technical and Legal team.”
Ni4H Vice Chairman, Kevin Slatter, said: “As a local resident my biggest concern about this development is the possible focus on profit over health. While disappointed to lose the appeal we were pleased that it was part of the conditions that a formal liaison group would have to be set up, to keep the local community informed and for them to have more confidence by being part of the process. So, I was very disappointed that we have had no information about progress until we see it in the press, despite asking directly for updates. I hope this is not indicative of how the relationship between Britaniacrest and the community will continue.”
Karen Park, Ni4H Co-ordinator, said: “This proposal goes against climate ambitions. In July 2020 West Sussex County Council approved the Climate Change Strategy to be carbon neutral and climate resilient by 2030.”
The Community Liaison Group will be open to members of the public, contact Ni4H www.ni4h.org for more information.”